The VoIP adapter is the connecting device between the Internet and the phone. VoIP (voice over internet protocol) is the
VoIP Adapter
technology used to transmit voice communications over the Internet. Just like data is broken up into packets the voice communication is divided into packets and sent out over the Internet. To keep the packets in order and traveling quickly there is another supporting technology called QoS (quality of service) which prioritizes the data and minimize any latency or jitter that would degrade the call. Internet telephony is another term used with this technology that describes the services provided, such as, voice, fax, and messaging that converts voice to digital packets.
The VoIP market has grown much since 2004 with many new market services being added allowing subscribers to make and receive calls over broadband Internet access just as they would using normal PSTN (public switched telephone networks). The DID (direct inbound dialing) provides comparable telephone service with major carries at considerably reduced costs. Low flat monthly fee contracts allow for unlimited calling with very low additional rates to other countries. Also with many additional services available it makes VoIP an attractive alternative to POTS (plain old telephone service).
There are three common VoIP adapters used to connect subscribers:
ATA (analog telephone adapter)
The ATA allows for converting existing phone service to be used with Internet connections. Most users would not notice any difference to the new service except for the lower flat rate cost.
Dedicated VoIP Phone
The dedicated VoIP phone allows direct connection to the Internet and without the need of a computer. These VoIP phones can be either wired or wireless connected by Ethernet to a router or LAN. These phones require a service provider for connection.
Softphone
A softphone is computer enabled phone using software without the need of any other hardware except a headset. Skype is a very popular VoIP Internet phone service that is used with a softphone running from a computer enabled with the appropriate software.
Growing Market
The variety of VoIP adapter has grown over the recent years to include many manufactures. Cisco, Linksys, Motorola, and Logitech are just a few of the many manufactures of VoIP adapters on the market now. The VoIP service providers has also grown and become very competitive with low start-up fees and low monthly rates. Now is a good time to be looking at this alternative technology to replace your POTS.